PEOPLE are being urged to keep an eye on their elderly neighbours after police received reports of two cold callers knocking on doors claiming they were owed money.

The scammers have targeted older residents in Greenshank Close, Newton-le-Willows and Clipsley Lane, Haydock, officers warned on Saturday.

The callers are asking for money for work they have not done.

A police spokesman said: "Please keep an eye on your elderly neighbours and report any concerns."

Advice for protection against bogus callers includes taking steps to ensure doors remain locked and using a chain when answering to someone who has knocked or rung the bell.

Merseyside Police's further advice for avoiding fraudsters include:

  • Anyone who calls at your door should have some form of identification. You are well within your rights to ask for this and make a note of their details.
  • Never give out banking or personal details to anyone you’re unsure about. If you can’t be certain if a visitor is genuinely who they say they are, ask them to come back at a later date. This gives you time to verify their identity and perhaps also arrange for a relative or friend to be there.
  • Remember, it’s OK to tell visitors you’re not interested or ask them to leave if you aren’t comfortable. Legitimate visitors will understand.
  • If you suspect fraud, please report fraud to us. The methods fraudsters use can be extremely clever – there’s no shame in having been caught out.